Applications are now open for the Joint Japan World Bank Scholarship (JJ/WBGSP) 2026. This prestigious scholarship gives students from developing countries the opportunity to pursue a Master’s degree at leading universities across the United States, Europe, Japan, Africa, and Oceania.
The program is funded by the World Bank and supports future leaders who are committed to reducing poverty, promoting economic growth, and contributing to sustainable development in their home countries. Selected scholars can study development-related programs at top universities without worrying about financial costs.
Scholarship Details
Host Countries: United States, Japan, Europe, Africa, and Oceania
Organized By: World Bank Group
Degree Level: Master’s Degree
Duration: Up to 2 Years
Scholarship Type: Fully Funded
Application Deadline: 29 May 2026
Financial Benefits
The Joint Japan World Bank Scholarship covers:
💰 Full tuition fees
✈️ Round-trip airfare
🏥 Medical insurance
🏠 Monthly living allowance
📚 Support for books and study materials
About the Scholarship
The Joint Japan World Bank Scholarship Program helps professionals from developing countries gain advanced knowledge and skills in areas related to development.
The program focuses on fields that contribute to economic growth, public policy, health, education, governance, and sustainable development. Scholars are expected to use the knowledge gained to help improve conditions in their home countries after graduation.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
Eligible Countries
The scholarship is open to applicants from many developing countries, including:
Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Benin, Bhutan, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cambodia, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Congo, Côte d’Ivoire, Djibouti, Ethiopia, Ghana, Guinea, Haiti, Honduras, Kenya, Kyrgyz Republic, Liberia, Madagascar, Malawi, Mali, Mozambique, Nepal, Niger, Nigeria, Pakistan, Papua New Guinea, Rwanda, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda, Uzbekistan, Yemen, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and many others.
Partner Universities and Eligible Programs
Applicants must first secure admission to an approved Master’s program before applying for the scholarship.
Some participating universities include:
Yale University (USA)
Master’s in Systemic Risk
Columbia University (USA)
Master of Public Administration in Economic Policy or Global Leadership
Johns Hopkins University (USA)
Master of Public Health
Brandeis University (USA)
Global Sustainability, Global Health, and Public Policy Programs
Williams College (USA)
MA in Policy Economics
University of California, Berkeley (USA)
Master of Development Practice
University of Tokyo (Japan)
Master of Public Policy
University of Tsukuba (Japan)
Master’s in Economic and Public Policy
KIT / Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (Europe)
Master of Science in Public Health and Health Equity
Required Documents
Applicants must prepare the following documents:
How to Apply for the Joint Japan World Bank Scholarship 2026
Follow these steps to apply:
Step 1: Apply and gain admission to an eligible Master’s program.
Step 2: Prepare all required documents.
Step 3: Complete the online scholarship application through the official World Bank scholarship portal.
Step 4: Upload all supporting documents.
Step 5: Submit two recommendation letters.
Step 6: Review your application carefully and submit it before the deadline.
Final Thoughts
The Joint Japan World Bank Scholarship 2026 is one of the best fully funded Master’s scholarships for professionals from developing countries. It provides full financial support, access to top universities, and the opportunity to gain skills that can help create positive change at home.
If you meet the eligibility requirements, start preparing your documents early and secure admission to an eligible Master’s program before submitting your scholarship application.
